Question

What is the empirical formula of glycogen? What is the unit that forms the basis of the glycogen polymer? What form of linkage joins these monomeric units?

Short answer

The empirical formula of glycogen is $C_6{H}_{12}{O}_6$, which is due to its composition of glucose monomers. The unit that forms the basis of the glycogen polymer is a glucose monomer. These glucose units are connected through α-1,4-glycosidic linkages in the main chains, with additional branching points formed by α-1,6-glycosidic linkages.

Step-by-step solution

Empirical Formula of Glycogen

Glycogen is a polysaccharide that serves as the main storage form of glucose in animals and fungi. It has a highly branched structure and is composed of glucose monomers. The empirical formula of a single glucose monomer is $C_6{H}_{12}{O}_6$. Since glycogen is a polymer of glucose, its empirical formula is also $C_6{H}_{12}{O}_6$.

Unit That Forms the Basis of Glycogen Polymer

The unit that forms the basis of the glycogen polymer is a glucose monomer. As mentioned before, glycogen is a polymer of these glucose units connected to form a large branched structure.

Type of Linkage Between Monomeric Units

Glycogen is made up of glucose monomers that are linked together through α-1,4-glycosidic linkages forming the main chains. Additional branching points in the structure occur with the presence of α-1,6-glycosidic linkages. These connections allow for rapid glucose release from glycogen when energy is needed by the body.